Honda CB Hornet 160R vs Suzuki Gixxer Comparo

The Suzuki Gixxer took over the market as one of the best looking motorcycles available in the 150cc segment when launched. The Gixxer also managed to upset the Yamaha FZ's sales after being launched and has given Suzuki some confidence in the Indian motorcycle market.

All seems well until Honda came up with the CB Hornet 160R a few days ago. The Hornet looks sharp, and very sporty, which might send shivers down Suzuki's spine. So, how do these motorcycles compare in terms of pricing, design, engine specifications, and features? Let's take a look.

Pricing

• Honda CB Hornet 160R: Rs. 88,000 onward
• Suzuki Gixxer: Rs. 85,000 onward

Note: Prices mentioned are approximate on-road values (Delhi) for base models

Design

The Honda CB Hornet 160R features sharp lines, with a small fairing up front. The overall design is quite similar to CX-01 that was showcased during the 2014 Indian Auto Expo. The motorcycle has high mounted indicators, a dual position lamps up front and the 'X' shaped tail lamp, which the highlight of the motorcycle's design.

The Gixxer too is a very sporty looking motorcycle, while it features more rounded design compared to the Hornet. The Gixxer has a tiny fairing up front too, but has a macho looking design overall. Both the motorcycles have distinct designs.

Engine, Specification, & Gearbox

The Honda CB Hornet 160R is powered by a 162.71cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder four stroke engine that produces 15.6bhp and 14.7Nm of torque. The Hornet's engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox and returns a mileage of 58.9km/l.

The Suzuki Gixxer is powered by a 154.9cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder four stroke engine, which produces 15bhp and 14Nm of peak torque. This engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox as well, and returns a mileage of 45km/l. The Gixxer weighs 135kg (dry) while the Hornet weighs 140kg. Both motorcycles come with a 12-litre fuel tank.

Features

The Honda Hornet features optional disc brakes at the rear, Honda's Combi Brake System (CBS), fully digital meter, petal discs, telescopic front suspension, monoshock at the rear, 140 section rear and 100 section front tyres, alloy wheels, and a unique 'X' shaped LED tail lamp.

The Gixxer too comes with fully digital meter console, telescopic front suspension, monoshock at the rear, 140 section rear and 100 section front tyres, alloy wheels, and a standard disc brake up front. In terms of features, they are almost evenly matched, apart from CBS and difference is design of features.

Verdict

This is the tough bit. Both motorcycles are almost evenly matched in terms of pricing, design, features and engine specifications. If you are looking to go for a motorcycle that handles really good, the Gixxer is the right choice, but if mileage and reliability is a concern, there is nothing to beat Honda.